The plot of Woody Allen’s latest film Irrational Man sounds compelling enough. Philosophy professor Abe Lucas (Joaquin Phoenix) decides to kill a corrupt judge in the hope of giving his life meaning. As this is going on, he has to juggle relationships with both student Jill (Emma Stone) and colleague Rita (Parker Posey).
There is a problem though with its execution. What could be a fascinating and philosophical drama ends up seeming more like a slightly surreal soap opera. Like a soap opera, there is no real energy and depth and, as a result, the whole thing becomes interesting only on the most superficial level.
The script is the weakest point. Aside from the college movie clichés – the troubled, alcoholic professor, the inappropriate relationship with a student – and the banal dialogue, it is also peppered with a series of annoying voiceovers that tell us little we couldn’t already grasp from the action on-screen.
Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone do their best, but they can’t bring to life what is already stillborn.
If you’re a die-hard Woody Allen fan you might get something out of this, otherwise it is best avoided.
Star Rating: 2/5
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